Slow Internet on 2.4 GHz Wi-fi network, but not on 5 GHz

The first test could be to swap USB WiFi devices if that is what your using.

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Not a MAC user other than the addresses every one of my networking devices contain.

The wireless device/s, contains configuration settings that may not be supported in the software being used or accessed by the user.

In Windows OS's , device configuration and information, can be accessed through the device manager. This is the hub for all devices and access to some lower level settings/configurations.

(lower level in terms of what is supported/affected above.)

I would imagine that the MAC OS's contain a system drivers location that is comparable to other OS's

Access the networking section and thus the IEEE 802.11 device.

You included both the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequencies which suggests that your access point, which is inside your routers case, supports the IEEE 802.11g standard. This is backwards compatible the same as your WiFi device connected to your Mac book.

Often by default the backwards compatible settings are set to include earlier 802.11 standards. This way a new Mac book could connect to an old access point and vice versa.

The Mac book WiFi device can only utilize one standard at a time. in other words, if a connection is made at a 802.11 b standard the only frequency accessible will be the 2.4 GHz. The frequency is not the issue here but the bandwidth.

Lower frequencies penetrate obstacles better than higher frequencies.

For example: Your sound system's low end travels through the house farther than the high end.

Find the configuration settings and configure the Mac book WiFi device to only use the 802.11g standard.

There often is a automatic setting for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz but I would suggest experimenting.

If using your both using identical USB WiFi devices swap them and take note of any differences.

You also could...should, I am suggesting to access the routers WiFi settings and set them to the same settings as your Mac book WiFi devices. You will need a cord for this. Also check the router log and see what it says. You may freak what you read but it is something to know about. It may include a clue to the connection issue.

If using an internal WiFi device, it is possible that one of the 2 antenna connections has become disconnected at the wireless device. This does happen and if it has then you could try using some good tape to help it stay in place...of course this is after you open your Mac book. It might not involve more than 1 or 2 little screws on the bottom. Check online for any thing your not sure of. ( and pull the battery)

Good luck and remember that wired is faster than wireless and more secure but slower for moving around and awkward when driving down the street.

So ask yourself: Do I want fast data or fast mobility?

You can have both...just not at the time.

...modifyman